(1) “Annual public fair” means a community, county, district, regional, or state fair that is held and conducted by a fair association and permitted by the department pursuant to s. 616.15.

(2) “Authority” means the Florida State Fair Authority.

(3) “Community fair” means an annual public fair that serves an area of less than an entire county, has exhibits that are in accordance with s. 616.17, and gives premiums or awards to exhibitors. Agricultural products shall be produced in the community the exhibit represents. The majority of the board of directors of the fair shall reside, be employed, or operate a business in the community the fair represents.

(4) “Concession” means use by a fair association, or a grant, lease, or license to a third party, of a portion of the land under the ownership, custody, or control of a fair association for specific uses, or the right to enter upon the land for specific purposes, such as providing rides, games, food, beverage, merchandise for sale, exhibits, projects, activities, events, programs, or other uses authorized in this chapter.

(5) “County fair” means an annual public fair that serves an entire county and provides exhibitors with premiums or awards for exhibits that are in accordance with s. 616.17. Agricultural products must be typical of those produced in the county the exhibit represents. The majority of the board of directors of the fair shall reside, be employed, or operate a business in the county that the fair association represents.

(6) “Department” means the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

(7) “District fair” means an annual public fair that serves at least five counties and has exhibits that meet the requirements of s. 616.17. A district fair shall pay at least $25,000 in cash premiums or awards to exhibitors. Agricultural products must be typical of those produced in the counties the exhibit represents. Livestock may originate from outside the district, but must be registered in the exhibitor’s name at least 30 days before the opening day of the fair. Each county is encouraged to have proportionate exhibits, typical of its respective natural resources. Each county shall have exhibits representing basic resources in agriculture and industry.

(8) “Entry” means one item entered for competition or show. An entry may constitute an exhibit, depending upon the regulations stated in the premium book.

(9) “Exhibit” means one or more entries entered for exhibition and constituting a unit. An exhibit may consist of one or more entries, depending upon the regulations stated in the premium book. The term includes parades and displays of articles or a collection of articles, whether static, interactive, or dynamic, by a fair association or a third party contracting with a fair association, such as exhibits of animals, art, housewares, or motor vehicles.

(10) “Exhibitor” means an individual, group of individuals, or business, including a fair association or third party contracting with a fair association, which has an exhibit.

(11) “Fair association” or “association” means an association not for profit incorporated under this chapter for the purpose of conducting and operating public fairs or expositions.

(12) “Public fair or exposition” means a project, activity, event, or program, and use by a fair association, including, but not limited to, the annual public fair, which serves the purposes specified in s. 616.08 and benefits and develops the educational, agricultural, horticultural, livestock, charitable, historical, civic, cultural, scientific, and other resources of this state, or any county, municipality, or other community in this state.

(13) “Regional fair” or “interstate fair” means an annual public fair of this state and other states in which fair exhibits meet the requirements of s. 616.17. Agricultural products must be typical of those produced in the area the exhibit represents.

(14) “Specialized show” means a show or exhibition exhibiting and emphasizing livestock or poultry, or a fruit or vegetable festival, and must meet the minimum exhibit requirements specified in s. 616.17. A specialized show may qualify under one of the definitions in subsections (3), (5), (7), and (15).

(15) “State fair” means an annual public fair that serves the entire state. Exhibits must comply with s. 616.17, and cash premiums or awards may be given to exhibitors.

616.01 Number of persons required; requisites of proposed charter.—Twenty-five or more persons who are residents and qualified electors of the county in which the annual public fair is to be located, who wish to form an association not for profit for the purpose of conducting and operating public fairs or expositions, may become incorporated in the following manner. The subscribers shall submit the proposed charter to the department for review and approval. If the proposed charter is approved, the subscribers shall sign and present the proposed charter to the judge of the circuit court for the county in which the principal office of the association will be located. The proposed charter must specify:

(1) The name of the association and the place where the principal office is to be located. The name of the association shall include the word, “Inc.”

(2) The general nature of the objectives and powers of the association, including a provision that the association is incorporated for the sole purpose of conducting and operating public fairs or expositions.

(3) The qualifications and terms of association members and criteria for their admission and expulsion. Provision may be made in the charter for ex officio membership.

(4) The time for which the association is to exist.

(5) The name and residence of each subscriber.

(6) Procedures for the election of and governance by officers, who may be elected or appointed.

(7) The designation of officers who will manage the affairs of the association until the first election or appointment under the charter.

(8) Procedures for the adoption, amendment, or rescission of bylaws of the association.

(9) The highest amount of indebtedness or liability that may be accrued by the association.

616.02 Acknowledgment of charter.—The proposed charter of a fair association shall be acknowledged by at least three of its subscribers before an officer authorized to make acknowledgment of deeds. Subscribers shall also make and take an oath, which must be attached to the proposed charter, stating that the primary objective of the association is public service and holding, conducting, and promoting public fairs or expositions; that money and other available assets in value exceeding $5,000 have been provided for the purposes of the association; and that the association will operate in good faith to carry out the purposes and objectives set forth in its charter.

616.03 Notice of application; approval and record of charter.—A notice of intention to apply to the circuit court for the charter of a fair association must specify the date that application will be made, shall be sent to the department for approval, and shall be published in a newspaper in the county where the principal office of the association will be located once each week for 4 consecutive weeks. The notice must briefly summarize the charter and objectives of the proposed association. The proposed charter shall be submitted to and approved by the board of county commissioners of the county in which the principal office of the association will be located. After approval by the department and the board of county commissioners, the proposed charter and proof of approval and publication shall be submitted to the circuit judge on the date specified in the notice. If no cause is shown to the contrary and the judge finds that the proposed charter is in proper form and will serve the primary objective of public service, the judge shall approve the charter and issue an order incorporating the subscribers under the charter for the objectives and purposes specified in the charter. The charter and order of incorporation shall be recorded in the office of the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the principal office of the association will be located and provided to the department. After the order is recorded, the subscribers and their associates are incorporated with the objectives and powers established in the charter and under the name given in the charter. During the publication period, the proposed charter shall be on file in the office of the clerk of the circuit court. This section does not preclude a fair association from also filing its duly approved charter with the Department of State pursuant to chapter 617 for notice purposes.

616.04 Evidence of existence and contents of charter.—A certified copy of the charter and decree of incorporation of a fair association shall be evidence of the contents of the charter in all actions and proceedings, and shall be conclusive evidence of the existence of the incorporated association in all actions and proceedings where the question of its existence is only collaterally involved, and prima facie evidence in all other actions and proceedings.

616.051 Dissolving a charter.—A fair association may dissolve its charter by resolution as provided in its charter or bylaws. The proposal for dissolving the charter shall be submitted to the department for approval. Upon approval and publication of notice and proof that all indebtedness has been paid and no claims are outstanding against the association, the circuit judge may, by decree, dissolve the association and order its remaining public funds to be distributed as recommended by the board of directors.

616.06 Amount of indebtedness authorized.—Any fair association may subject itself to indebtedness or liability in an aggregate sum not greater than the limit stated in its charter or any amendment thereto, without regard to the value of its property. Any fair association may also subject itself to specific bonded or mortgage indebtedness, in addition to and without regard to its general powers or limit as to indebtedness or liability.

616.07 Members not personally liable; property of association held in trust; exempt from taxation.—

(1) A member, officer, director, or trustee of a fair association is not personally liable for any of the debts of the association, and money or property of a fair association may not be distributed as profits or dividends among its members, officers, directors, or trustees.

(2) All money and property of the association, except that necessary for the payment of its just debts and liabilities, are public property, shall be administered by the association as trustee, and shall be used exclusively for the legitimate purpose of the association. So long as they are used for that purpose, all money and property of the association are exempt from all forms of taxation, including special assessments, and any projects, activities, events, programs, and uses authorized by this part serve an essential governmental purpose and, therefore, are not taxable and are not subject to assessments. This subsection does not apply to chapter 212.

(3) Upon order of the circuit judge, any public funds or property remaining in a fair association when the association is dissolved shall be distributed by resolution of the board of directors to any county or any municipality within the county. The board may designate in the distribution resolution the public project that will benefit from the funds or the manner in which the property will be used. If property has been contributed by a municipality or county, the property shall be reconveyed to the municipality or county that gave the property to the association.

616.08 Additional powers of association.—Each fair association shall hold, conduct, and operate public fairs and expositions, including an annual public fair. For that purpose, a fair association may buy, lease, acquire, and occupy lands and erect buildings and improvements of any kind on those lands; sell, mortgage, lease, license, or convey any such property or any part thereof, in its discretion, from time to time for the purpose of public fairs or expositions; charge and receive compensation for admission to those public fairs and expositions, and grant a lease or license or rent space for exhibits, concessions, and other purposes; conduct and hold public meetings; supervise and conduct lectures and demonstration work in connection with or for the improvement of agriculture, horticulture, stockraising and poultry raising, and all kinds of farming and related matters; hold exhibits of agricultural and horticultural products and livestock, poultry, equine, and other domestic animals; give certificates or diplomas of excellence; promote the progress of the geographical area it represents and serves and stimulate public interest in the advantages and development of that area by providing facilities for the benefit and development of the educational, agricultural, horticultural, livestock, equestrian, charitable, historical, civic, cultural, scientific, and other resources of the state, any county of the state, or any municipality or other community of any county of the state, including facilities for exhibits, concessions, industrial exhibitions, public gatherings, cultural activities, entertainment events, recreational vehicle parking, auctions, trade shows, concerts, and other functions that the association determines will enhance the educational, physical, economic, and cultural interests of the public; and generally do, perform, and carry out all matters, acts, and business usual or proper in connection with public fairs and expositions. This enumeration of particular powers does not diminish or limit any special provisions of the charter of the association for the regulation of its business, and the conduct of its affairs of creating, defining, limiting, and regulating the powers of the association or its officers or members. The treasurer or similar officer of the association shall give a good and sufficient bond with a surety company duly authorized under the laws of the state, payable to the association and in an amount equal to the value of the total amount of money and other property in that officer’s possession or custody, in addition to the value of any money and property of the association which may reasonably be expected to come into that officer’s possession or custody. A fair association organized under this chapter is a noncommercial activity provider.

616.09 Not authorized to carry on gambling, etc.; forfeiture of charter for violations; annulment proceedings.—Nothing in this chapter shall be held or construed to authorize or permit any fair association to carry on, conduct, supervise, permit, or suffer any gambling or game of chance, lottery, betting, or other act in violation of the criminal laws of the state; and nothing in this chapter shall permit horseracing or dogracing or any other pari-mutuel wagering, for money or upon which money is placed. Any fair association which violates any such law or which knowingly permits the violation of any such law is subject to forfeiture of its charter; and if any citizen complains to the Department of Legal Affairs that the association was organized for or is being used as a cover to evade any of the laws of Florida against crime, and submits prima facie evidence to sustain the charge, the Department of Legal Affairs shall institute, and in due time prosecute to final judgment, such proceedings as may be necessary to annul the charter and incorporation of the association. A writ of injunction or other extraordinary process shall be issued by a court of competent jurisdiction on the application of the Department of Legal Affairs on complaint pending the annulment proceeding and in aid thereof, and the case shall be given precedence over all civil cases pending in that court and shall be heard and disposed of with as little delay as practicable.

616.101 Annual review of accounts and records.—The accounts and records of every fair association whose annual public fair has an annual attendance of more than 25,000 shall be reviewed annually by a qualified accountant licensed by the state. A fair association whose annual public fair has an annual attendance of 25,000 or fewer must submit an annual financial statement that has been signed by an officer of the county. The results of the reviews shall be kept in the official records of each association, available to all directors of the association. A certified copy of the review shall be filed with the department:

(1) On request by the department to certify expenditures of the premiums awarded to exhibitors of a fair or of building funds when there is evidence of violation of state laws; or

616.11 Association authorized to contract with municipality, county, or state for use of land; admission fees; state, counties, and municipalities authorized to make contributions.—Any fair association may enter into any contract, lease, or agreement with any municipality or county in the state or with the state or agency or subdivision of the state for the donation to or the use and occupation by the association of any land owned, leased, or held by the county or municipality or the state or agency or subdivision of the state during a time and on the terms approved by the county or municipality or the state or agency or subdivision, with the right of the association to use the property for public exposition purposes. The state, the Department of Transportation and any other agency or subdivision of the state, the board of county commissioners of any county within which the fair or exhibition is held, and the mayor and city council of any municipality within the county may also make contributions of money, property, or services to fair associations to assist in carrying out the purposes of the associations under this chapter. The state or any agency or subdivision of the state, boards of county commissioners of the various counties of the state, and the mayor and city council of any municipality within the county may expend such sums of money as they deem necessary for the best interests of their counties and in aiding the development of the educational, agricultural, horticultural, livestock, charitable, historical, civic, cultural, scientific, and any other resources of their counties at and in connection with public fairs and expositions, including the offering and paying of premiums for the exhibitions of resources of the state, county, or municipality.

(1) Each person who operates any traveling show, exhibition, amusement enterprise, carnival, vaudeville, exhibit, minstrel, rodeo, theatrical, game or test of skill, riding device, dramatic repertoire, other show or amusement, or concession, including a concession operating in a tent, enclosure, or other temporary structure, within the grounds of, and in connection with, any annual public fair held by a fair association shall pay the license taxes provided by law. However, if the association satisfies the requirements of this chapter, including securing the required fair permit from the department, the license taxes and local business tax authorized in chapter 205 are waived and the department shall issue a tax exemption certificate. The department shall adopt the proper forms and rules to administer this section, including the necessary tax exemption certificate, showing that the fair association has met all requirements and that the traveling show, exhibition, amusement enterprise, carnival, vaudeville, exhibit, minstrel, rodeo, theatrical, game or test of skill, riding device, dramatic repertoire, other show or amusement, or concession is exempt.

(2) Any fair association securing the required annual fair permit from the department is exempt from local business tax as defined by chapter 205, occupational permit fees, or any occupational taxes assessed by any county, municipality, political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality thereof.

616.121 Making false application.—Any person who, with fraudulent intent, makes or causes to be made any false statement in an application for a permit to hold an annual public fair or in an application for distribution of the amount paid for license taxes under the provisions of this chapter, and by that false statement obtains that permit or distribution, commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

616.13 Restrictions on other amusement rides.—A person may not engage in the business of providing temporary amusement rides, as defined in s. 616.242, within a 5-mile radius of and within 30 days before or during any public fair or exposition being operated by a fair association, when not operating in connection with that fair or exposition, except with the written consent of the affected fair association.

(1) A fair association may not conduct more than one annual public fair each calendar year. Any fair association that conducts more than one public fair during any one calendar year is subject to revocation of its charter by the court granting the charter.

(2) Any fair association that does not conduct an annual public fair for a period of 3 calendar years shall, upon the recommendation of the department, have its charter revoked by the court granting the charter.

616.15 Permit from Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services required.—

(1) An annual public fair may not be conducted by a fair association without a permit issued by the department. The association shall present to the department an application for a permit, signed by an officer of the association, at least 3 months before holding the annual public fair. The application shall be accompanied by a fee in an amount to be determined by the department for processing the application and making any required investigation. The application fee must be at least $183 and may not exceed $366. Fees collected under this subsection shall be deposited in the General Inspection Trust Fund of the State Treasury in a special account to be known as the “Agricultural and Livestock Fair Account.” A copy of the application must be sent to each fair association located within 50 miles of the site of the proposed annual public fair at the same time the application is sent to the department. The department may issue a permit if the applicant provides:

(a) The opening and closing dates of the proposed annual public fair.

(b) The name and address of the owner of the central amusement attraction that will operate during the annual public fair.

(c) An affidavit properly executed by the president or chief executive officer of the applicant association certifying the existence of a binding contract entered into by the association and the owner of the central amusement attraction covering the period for which the permit from the department is applied. The contract between the parties shall be available for inspection by duly authorized agents of the department in administering this chapter.

(d) A written statement that the main purpose of the association is to conduct and operate a public fair and exposition, including the annual fair, for the benefit and development of the educational, agricultural, horticultural, livestock, charitable, historical, civic, cultural, scientific, and other resources of the geographical area the fair association represents and serves. The statement must be subscribed and acknowledged by an officer of the association before an officer authorized to take acknowledgments.

(e) A premium list of the current annual public fair to be conducted or a copy of the previous year’s premium list showing all premiums and awards to be offered to exhibitors in various departments of the annual public fair, which may include, but are not limited to, art exhibition, beef cattle, county exhibits, dairy cattle, horticulture, swine, women’s department, 4-H Club activities, Future Farmers of America activities, Future Homemakers of America activities, poultry and egg exhibits, and community exhibits. The premium list, which may be submitted separately from the application, must be submitted at least 60 days before the annual public fair begins operation.

(f) Proof of liability insurance insuring the association against liability for injury to persons, in an amount of not less than $300,000 per occurrence.

(g) A copy of the most recent review.

(h) A list of all current members of the board of directors of the association and their contact information, including home address.

The department shall issue the permit within 10 days after it receives all the information and the applicant qualifies pursuant to this section.

(2) The department shall administer and enforce the provisions of this chapter except as to the regulation of games, which shall be regulated by local law enforcement agencies. The department shall adopt rules to administer this chapter, including rules governing the form and contents of the application for the permit and any reports that it may deem necessary in enforcing the provisions of this chapter.

(3) Notwithstanding any fair association meeting the requirements set forth in subsection (1), the department may order a full investigation to determine if the fair association meets the requirements of s. 616.01, and may withhold a permit from, deny a permit to, or withdraw a permit once issued to the association. The department shall also consider whether any proposed annual public fair, as set forth in an application for a permit, will compete with another annual public fair within 50 miles of the proposed annual public fair with respect to name, dates of operation, or market. The department may deny, withhold, or withdraw a permit from a fair association if the department determines that such fair association will compete with another association. The department shall give preference to existing fair associations with established dates, locations, and names. The determination by the department is final.

(2) The provisions of subsection (1) do not apply to specialized livestock shows or fruit or vegetable festivals, the minimum exhibits of which shall be as follows:

(a) Each specialized livestock show shall consist of at least 50 head of animals or 300 head of poultry.

(b) Each specialized fruit, vegetable, or crop festival or exposition shall consist of at least 50 entries in the specialty, which shall occupy at least 1,000 square feet of display area.

(3) The department may provide a waiver to the minimum exhibit requirements of this section to any fair association that submits an application for the waiver to the department, at least 30 days before the annual public fair in need of the waiver, and shows good cause why the requirements of this section cannot be met.

(4) An authority or fair association as defined in this chapter that provides any of the exhibits set forth in subsection (1) or other exhibits or concessions, whether such exhibits or concessions are provided directly or through an agreement with a third party, is not subject to criminal penalties or civil damages arising out of the personal injury or death of any person, or property damage, resulting from such exhibits or concessions. This subsection does not apply if the personal injury, death, or property damage was due to an act or omission committed by the authority or fair association in bad faith, with malicious purpose, or with wanton and willful disregard of human rights, safety, or property. This subsection does not apply to third parties providing exhibits or concessions.

616.185 Trespass upon grounds or facilities of public fair; penalty; arrests.—

(1) For the purposes of this chapter, trespass upon the grounds of the Florida State Fair Authority or any other fair association permitted under s. 616.15 means:

(a) Entering and remaining upon any grounds or facilities owned, operated, or controlled by the Florida State Fair Authority or any other association permitted under s. 616.15 and committing any act that disrupts the orderly conduct of any authorized activity of the fair association in charge, or its lessees, licensees, or the general public on those grounds or facilities; or

(b) Entering and remaining on those grounds or facilities after being directed not to enter or to leave them by the executive director of the authority, chief administrative officer of the fair association, or any employee or agent of the association designated by the executive director or administrator to maintain order on those grounds and facilities, after a determination by the executive director, administrator, employee, or agent that the entering or remaining on those grounds or facilities is in violation of the rules and regulations of the Florida State Fair Authority or permitted fair association or is disrupting the orderly conduct of any authorized activity of the fair association in charge, or its lessees, licensees, or the general public on those grounds or facilities.

(2) Any person committing the offense of trespass upon the grounds of the Florida State Fair Authority or any other fair association permitted under s. 616.15 commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(3) A law enforcement officer may arrest any person on or off the premises, without a warrant, if the officer has probable cause for believing such person has committed the offense of trespass upon the grounds of the Florida State Fair Authority or any fair association permitted under s. 616.15. Such an arrest does not render the law enforcement officer criminally or civilly liable for false arrest, false imprisonment, or unlawful detention.

616.19 Designation of fairs.—Any fair association created pursuant to this chapter shall be designated by the name stated in the permit required or stated by its fair association and is recognized by the state as equal in dignity to the Florida State Fair and as fully recognized as the Florida State Fair.

616.21 Agricultural and livestock exhibit buildings; conditions for expenditures.— Appropriated funds may not be expended except upon approval and with the recommendation of the department. Further, the appropriation may not be expended for the construction of a building unless fee simple title to the land on which the building is to be constructed is vested in the county, municipality, or fair association for which the building is to be constructed.

616.22 Exhibit buildings; matching funds for construction or repair.—In the construction or repair of buildings as authorized by any annual appropriation, the money to be expended therefor from the appropriation shall be matched in an equal amount by the county, municipality, or fair association for which the buildings are to be constructed or repaired. The amount to be paid by the county, municipality, or fair association for the construction or repair shall be made available before the construction or repair is begun. In no event may an amount greater than $25,000 be expended from the appropriation for the construction or repair of exhibit buildings for any one county, municipality, or fair association, from funds appropriated for that purpose; however, any amount not greater than $25,000 may be expended from the appropriation for the construction or repair of exhibit buildings for any one county, municipality, or fair association from the unexpended balance of any appropriation regardless of the amount previously expended under any other legislative appropriation for that one county, municipality, or fair association.

616.23 Use of buildings.—The buildings authorized by ss. 616.21-616.23 may be used by the county, municipality, or fair association for public fair or exposition purposes. These buildings may be used as office space for agricultural agents; however, no more than 20 percent of the buildings may be so used.

(1) The department shall administer and enforce the provisions of this chapter and the rules adopted pursuant thereto.

(2) It is the duty of each state attorney, law enforcement officer as defined by chapter 943, and other appropriate county or municipal officer to enforce this chapter and the rules adopted pursuant thereto and to assist the department and its inspectors and agents in the enforcement of this chapter and the rules adopted pursuant thereto.

(3) The department may commence and maintain any necessary and proper action for the following purposes:

(a) To enforce this chapter and the rules adopted pursuant thereto.

(b) To seek to enjoin any violation of this chapter or any rule adopted pursuant thereto. The circuit court may, after a hearing and for good cause shown, temporarily or permanently enjoin any person from violating this chapter or any rule adopted pursuant thereto or failing to comply with the requirements of this chapter or any rule adopted pursuant thereto.

616.241 Trade standards for operation at public fairs and expositions.

616.242 Safety standards for amusement rides.

616.241 Trade standards for operation at public fairs and expositions.—Trade standards for the operation of shows or games in connection with public fairs and expositions are as follows:

(1) APPROVAL OF SHOWS.—The approval of all shows will be left to the discretion of the fair management.

(2) WALK-THROUGH SHOW.—When donations are accepted, a sign to that effect shall be plainly posted at the entrance to the show.

(3) SPECIFICATIONS FOR TICKET OR CHANGE BOOTH.—The counter of the ticket or change booth patronized by children may not be more than 4 feet above the ground.

(4) PROTECTION TO FAIR PATRONS.—In order to provide adequate protection to fair patrons, for any motor dome show or any other similar show, in which equipment is used as a ballyhoo or for any other purpose, there shall be a barrier, guardrail, or chain of sufficient strength or height to prevent any equipment out of control from leaving the platform.

(5) GAME REGULATIONS.—The operator of a game at any public fair or exposition, before and during operation, must have and keep in a conspicuous place a sign stating the cost of a play and an explanation of how the game is played. The lettering on signs shall be plain and may not be less than 2 inches in height. Signs or placards shall be of permanent material so they can be used from one fair to the next. The game shall be closed until compliance with the regulation is provided.

(6) CAPITAL PRIZE.—Prizes shall be left to the discretion of the fair management; however, a capital prize must be given. No operator is permitted to display merchandise of any type which is not one of the prizes possible to be won. Each prize shall be so marked that any player may know in advance what is required to win any one of the prizes displayed. No flash display is permitted.

(7) OPERATORS OF GAMES REGULATED.—The operator of a game must work inside of the concession at all times except in a concession for which the operator has secured permission from the management to work on the outside, not over 4 feet from the barrier and only in front of the operator’s own game.

(8) FALSE ADVERTISING.—False advertising by banner or word-of-mouth or otherwise is prohibited.

(9) VIOLATIONS; REPORTING.—Florida law forbids lotteries, gambling, raffles, and other games of chance at community, county, district, state, regional, or interstate fairs and specialized shows. Enforcement is the responsibility of local boards and authorities.

(10) PARTICULAR GAMES.—The department shall prescribe by rule the particular games which may be exhibited at a public fair or exposition. Such rules shall include the operating standards and procedures to be used for all authorized games.

(11) CONCESSIONAIRES GENERALLY.—All concessionaires are prohibited from exhibiting at any public fair or exposition any game which has not been authorized by rule of the department.

(1) OWNER RESPONSIBILITY.—The owner of an amusement ride, and each amusement ride, must meet at all times the requirements of this section and any rules adopted thereunder.

(2) SCOPE.—This section applies to all amusement rides within this state unless exempt under subsection (10).

(3) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this section, the term:

(a) “Amusement ride” means any building, structure, or mechanical device or combination thereof through which a patron moves, walks, or is carried or conveyed on, along, around, over, or through a fixed or restricted course or within a defined area for the purpose of giving its patrons amusement, pleasure, thrills, or excitement.

(b) “Annual permit” means the United States Amusement Identification Number and the numbered and dated decal issued by the department, which signify that the amusement ride has been permitted by the department.

(c) “Bungy operation” means an amusement ride which utilizes as a component a bungy cord which is an elastic rope made of rubber, latex, or other elastic type materials whether natural or synthetic.

(d) “Go-kart” means an amusement ride vehicle controlled or driven by patrons specifically designed for and run on a fixed course.

(e) “Inspection certificate” means the document issued by the department, which indicates that the amusement ride has undergone a recurring inspection by the department as required by this section.

(f) “Kiddie ride” means an amusement ride designed primarily for use by patrons up to 12 years of age.

(g) “Kiddie train” means a train designed as a kiddie ride which is operated on a flat surface or flat track, carries no more than 14 patrons, and does not exceed a speed of 3 miles per hour.

(h) “Major modification” means any change in either the structural or operational characteristics of the amusement ride which will alter its performance from that specified in the manufacturer’s design criteria.

(i) “Manager” means a person having possession, custody, or managerial control of an amusement ride, whether as owner, lessee, agent, operator, attendant, or otherwise.

(j) “Nondestructive testing” is the development and application of technical methods, including, but not limited to, radiographic, magnetic particle, ultrasonic, liquid penetrant, electromagnetic, neutron radiographic, acoustic emission, visual, and leak testing to examine materials or components in ways that do not impair their future usefulness and serviceability in order to detect, locate, measure, and evaluate discontinuities, defects, and other imperfections; to assess integrity, properties, and composition; and to measure geometrical characters.

(k) “Owner” means the person exercising ultimate dominion and control over an amusement ride.

(l) “Patron” means any person who is in the immediate vicinity of an amusement ride, getting on or off, or entering or exiting an amusement ride, or using an amusement ride. The term does not include employees, agents, or servants of the owner while they are engaged in the duties of their employment.

(m) “Permanent amusement ride” means an amusement ride that is not regularly relocated.

(n) “Permanent facility” means a location or place from which amusement rides are not regularly relocated and at which such rides operate as a lasting part of the premises.

(o) “Private event” means an event that is not open to the general public and where no admission is charged.

(p) “Professional engineer” means a person who holds a valid license as a professional engineer issued by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation or by an equivalent licensing body in another state.

(q) “Qualified inspector” means an employee or agent of an insurance underwriter of an amusement ride who documents to the department in a manner established by rule of the department the following qualifications:

1. A minimum of 5 years experience in the amusement ride field, at least 2 years of which were involved in actual amusement ride inspection with a manufacturer, government agency, park, carnival, or insurance underwriter;

2. The completion of 32 hours per year of continuing education at a school approved by rule of the department, which includes inservice industry or manufacturer updates and seminars; and

3. At least 80 hours of formal education during the past 5 years from a school approved by rule of the department for amusement ride safety. Nondestructive-testing training, as determined by rule of the department, may be substituted for up to one-half of the 80 hours of education.

(r) “Simulator” means any amusement ride that is a self-contained unit requiring little or no assembly and that uses a motion picture simulation, along with a mechanical movement, to simulate activities that provide amusement or excitement for the patron.

(s) “Temporary amusement ride” means an amusement ride that is regularly relocated, with or without disassembly.

(t) “Water park” means a permanent facility with one or more amusement rides that totally or partially immerse a patron in water.

(4) ADOPTION OF STANDARDS; RULES.—

(a) The department shall adopt by rule standards for amusement rides which are the same as or similar to the following national standards:

1. American Society for Testing and Materials Committee F-24 Standards on Amusement Rides and Devices.

(b) The department may adopt rules necessary to effectuate the statutory duties of the department in the interest of public health, safety, and welfare and to promote patron safety in the design, construction, assembly, disassembly, maintenance, and operation of amusement rides in this state.

(c) The Legislature finds that go-karts, amusement rides at water parks, and bungy operations are amusement rides that, because of their unique nature, pose safety risks to patrons distinct from other amusement rides. Therefore, the department shall adopt rules regulating their safe use and operation and establish safety standards and inspection requirements in addition to those required by this section or other rule of the department.

(d) The Legislature finds that, as a result of accidents or other unforeseen events, circumstances may arise requiring additional safety standards for the protection of patrons of amusement rides, and therefore the department may adopt rules to address the circumstances that may arise following an accident or unforeseen event.

(5) ANNUAL PERMIT.—

(a) An amusement ride may not be operated without a current annual permit.

(b) To apply for an annual permit, an owner must submit to the department a written application on a form prescribed by rule of the department, which must include the following:

1. The legal name, address, and primary place of business of the owner.

2. A description, manufacturer’s name, serial number, model number and, if previously assigned, the United States Amusement Identification Number of the amusement ride.

3. A valid certificate of insurance for each amusement ride.

4. An affidavit of compliance that the amusement ride was inspected in person by the affiant and that the amusement ride is in general conformance with the requirements of this section and all applicable rules adopted by the department. The affidavit must be executed by a professional engineer or a qualified inspector no earlier than 60 days before, but not later than, the date of the filing of the application with the department. The owner shall request inspection and permitting of the amusement ride within 60 days of the date of filing the application with the department. The department shall inspect and permit the amusement ride within 60 days after filing the application with the department.

5. If required by subsection (6), an affidavit of nondestructive testing dated and executed no earlier than 60 days before, but not later than, the date of the filing of the application with the department. The owner shall request inspection and permitting of the amusement ride within 60 days of the date of filing the application with the department. The department shall inspect and permit the amusement ride within 60 days after filing the application with the department.

6. A request for inspection.

7. Upon request, the owner shall, at no cost to the department, provide the department a copy of the manufacturer’s current recommended operating instructions in the possession of the owner, the owner’s operating fact sheet, and any written bulletins in the possession of the owner concerning the safety, operation, or maintenance of the amusement ride.

(c) An annual permit must be issued by the department to the owner of an amusement ride when a completed application has been received, the amusement ride has passed the department’s inspection, and all applicable fees, as set by rule of the department, have been paid.

(d) The annual permit is valid for 1 year from the date of issue and is not transferable.

(e) The annual permit must be displayed on the amusement ride in a place visible to patrons of the amusement ride.

(f) Each go-kart track at the same permanent facility is considered a separate amusement ride.

(g) Amusement rides at water parks which operate from the same deck or level are considered one amusement ride.

(6) NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING; AFFIDAVIT; EXEMPTIONS.—

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (d), an owner may not operate an amusement ride unless the owner has at all times a current affidavit of nondestructive testing from a professional engineer or qualified inspector that the amusement ride has undergone nondestructive testing for metal fatigue at least annually. The nondestructive testing for metal fatigue must be conducted more often than annually, if required by any rule adopted under this section, by the manufacturer of the amusement ride or by the professional engineer or qualified inspector executing the affidavit of nondestructive testing. The nondestructive testing for metal fatigue must consist at least of visual nondestructive testing; in addition, nonvisual nondestructive testing for metal fatigue must be conducted on the components of the amusement ride as required by any rule adopted under this section, by the manufacturer of the amusement ride, or by the professional engineer or qualified inspector executing the affidavit of nondestructive testing.

(b) Nondestructive testings must be performed by a technician who meets the requirements of subparagraphs (4)(a)4. and 5.

(c) An affidavit of nondestructive testing must state:

1. That the amusement ride was inspected in person by the affiant.

2. That all nondestructive testing requirements are current.

3. That the nondestructive testing was performed by a qualified nondestructive testing technician.

4. The components of the amusement ride for which the manufacturer has recommended or required nondestructive testing.

5. The type of nondestructive testing required or recommended by the manufacturer.

6. The frequency of the nondestructive testing required or recommended by the manufacturer.

7. The components of the amusement ride for which the affiant has recommended or required nondestructive testing.

8. The type of nondestructive testing required or recommended by the affiant.

9. The frequency of the nondestructive testing as required or recommended by the affiant.

10. That visual nondestructive testing is adequate for the amusement ride to be in general conformance with the requirements of this section, and all applicable rules, if only visual nondestructive testing is required or recommended by either the manufacturer or the affiant.

(a) In order to obtain an annual permit, an amusement ride must be inspected by the department in accordance with subsection (11) and receive an inspection certificate. In addition, each permanent amusement ride must be inspected semiannually by the department in accordance with subsection (11) and receive an inspection certificate, and each temporary amusement ride must be inspected by the department in accordance with subsection (11), and must receive an inspection certificate each time the ride is set up or moved to a new location in this state unless the temporary amusement ride is:

1. Used at a private event;

2. A simulator, the capacity of which does not exceed 16 persons; or

3. A kiddie ride used at a public event, provided that there are no more than three amusement rides at the event, none of the kiddie rides at the event exceeds a capacity of 12 persons, and the ride has an inspection certificate that was issued within the preceding 6 months. The capacity of a kiddie ride shall be determined by rule of the department, unless the capacity of the ride has been determined and specified by the manufacturer. Any owner of a kiddie ride operating under this exemption is responsible for ensuring that no more than three amusement rides are operated at the event.

(b) To obtain a department inspection for an amusement ride, the owner must submit to the department on a form prescribed by rule of the department a written Request for Inspection. The owner must provide the following information to the department:

1. The legal name, address, and primary place of business of the owner.

2. A description, manufacturer’s name, serial number, model number, and the United States Amusement Identification Number, if previously assigned, of the amusement ride.

3. For a temporary amusement ride, for each time the amusement ride is set up or moved to a new location, the date of first intended use at the new location and the address or a description of the new location.

(c) For permanent amusement rides, the request for inspection must be received by the department at least 15 days before the owner’s planned opening date or at least 15 days before the expiration of the prior inspection certificate. If the request for inspection is received less than 15 days before the owner’s planned opening date or less than 15 days before the expiration of the prior inspection certificate, the department may nevertheless inspect the amusement ride and charge a late fee, as set by rule of the department.

(d) For temporary amusement rides, the request for inspection must be received by the department for each time the amusement ride is set up or moved to a new location at least 14 days before the date of first intended use at the new location. If the request for inspection is received less than 14 days before the date of first intended use at the new location, the department may nevertheless inspect the amusement ride and charge a late fee, as set by rule of the department.

(e) Inspections will be assigned on a first come, first served basis, and overflow requests will be scheduled on the closest date to the date for which the inspection was requested.

(f) Upon failure of an amusement ride to pass any department inspection, the owner may request reinspection which shall be submitted in writing to the department on a form prescribed by rule of the department. The department shall reinspect the amusement ride as soon as practical following receipt of the written request for reinspection and any applicable reinspection fees set by rule of the department. Inspections will be assigned on a first come, first served basis, and the overflow requests will be scheduled on the closest date to the date for which the inspection was requested.

(g) If the amusement ride passes inspection and the owner pays the applicable fee set by rule of the department, the department shall issue an inspection certificate on a form prescribed by rule of the department.

(h) The inspection certificate must contain the date of inspection, the site of the inspection, and the name of the inspector.

(i) The inspection certificate is valid only for the site stated on the inspection certificate. The inspection certificate is valid for a period of not more than 6 months from the date of issuance, and is not transferable.

(j) The inspection certificate must be displayed on the amusement ride at a place readily visible to patrons of the amusement ride.

(k) If the owner fails to timely cancel a Request for Inspection, requests holiday or weekend inspections, or is required to have a replacement USAID plate issued by the department, the owner may be charged an appropriate fee to be set by rule of the department.

(8) FEES.—

(a) The department shall by rule establish fees to cover the costs and expenditures associated with the fair rides inspection program, including all direct and indirect costs. If there is not sufficient general revenue appropriated by the Legislature, the industry shall pay for the remaining cost of the program. The fees must be deposited in the General Inspection Trust Fund.

(b) Any owner of an amusement ride who has not paid all the fees required under this section or who has any unpaid fine outstanding under this section may not operate any amusement ride in this state until the fees and fines have been paid to the department.

(9) INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS.—

(a) An owner may not operate an amusement ride unless the owner has in effect at all times of operation an insurance policy in an amount of at least $1 million per occurrence, $1 million in the aggregate, which insures the owner of the amusement ride against liability for injury to persons arising out of the use of the amusement ride.

(b) The policy must be procured from an insurer that is licensed to transact business in this state or that is approved as a surplus lines insurer.

(c) The insurance requirements imposed under this subsection do not apply to a governmental entity that is covered by the provisions of s. 768.28(16).

(10) EXEMPTIONS.—

(a) This section does not apply to:

1. Permanent facilities that employ at least 1,000 full-time employees and that maintain full-time, in-house safety inspectors. Furthermore, the permanent facilities must file an affidavit of the annual inspection with the department, on a form prescribed by rule of the department. Additionally, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services may consult annually with the permanent facilities regarding industry safety programs.

2. Any playground operated by a school, local government, or business licensed under chapter 509, if the playground is an incidental amenity and the operating entity is not primarily engaged in providing amusement, pleasure, thrills, or excitement.

3. Museums or other institutions principally devoted to the exhibition of products of agriculture, industry, education, science, religion, or the arts.

4. Conventions or trade shows for the sale or exhibit of amusement rides if there are a minimum of 15 amusement rides on display or exhibition, and if any operation of such amusement rides is limited to the registered attendees of the convention or trade show.

6. Go-karts operated in competitive sporting events if participation is not open to the public.

7. Nonmotorized playground equipment that is not required to have a manager.

8. Coin-actuated amusement rides designed to be operated by depositing coins, tokens, credit cards, debit cards, bills, or other cash money and which are not required to have a manager, and which have a capacity of six persons or less.

9. Facilities described in s. 549.09(1)(a) when such facilities are operating cars, trucks, or motorcycles only.

10. Battery-powered cars or other vehicles that are designed to be operated by children 7 years of age or under and that cannot exceed a speed of 4 miles per hour.

11. Mechanically driven vehicles that pull train cars, carts, wagons, or other similar vehicles, that are not confined to a metal track or confined to an area but are steered by an operator and do not exceed a speed of 4 miles per hour.

12. A water-related amusement ride operated by a business licensed under chapter 509 if the water-related amusement ride is an incidental amenity and the operating business is not primarily engaged in providing amusement, pleasure, thrills, or excitement and does not offer day rates.

13. An amusement ride at a private, membership-only facility if the amusement ride is an incidental amenity and the facility is not open to the general public; is not primarily engaged in providing amusement, pleasure, thrills, or excitement; and does not offer day rates.

14. A nonprofit permanent facility registered under chapter 496 which is not open to the general public.

(b) The department may, by rule, establish exemptions from this section for nonmotorized or human-powered amusement rides or coin-actuated amusement rides.

(11) INSPECTION STANDARDS.—An amusement ride must conform to and must be inspected by the department in accordance with the following standards:

(a) All mechanical, structural, and electrical components that affect patron safety must be in good working order.

(b) All control devices, speed-limiting devices, brakes, and safety equipment designated by the manufacturer must be in good working order.

(c) Parts must be properly aligned, and they may not be bent, distorted, cut, or otherwise injured to force a fit. Parts requiring lubrication must be lubricated in the course of assembly. Fastening and locking devices must be installed where required for safe operation.

(d) Before being used by the public, an amusement ride must be placed or secured with blocking, cribbing, outriggers, guys, or other means so as to be stable under all operating conditions.

(e) Areas in which patrons may be endangered by the operation of an amusement ride must be fenced, barricaded, or otherwise effectively guarded against inadvertent contact.

(f) Machinery used in or with an amusement ride must be enclosed, barricaded, or otherwise effectively guarded against inadvertent contact.

(g) An amusement ride powered so as to be capable of exceeding its maximum safe operating speed must be provided with a maximum-speed-limiting device.

(h) The interior and exterior parts of all patron-carrying amusement rides with which a patron may come in contact must be smooth and rounded and free from sharp, rough, or splintered edges and corners, with no projecting studs, bolts, screws, or other projections which might cause injury.

(i) Signs that advise or warn patrons of age restrictions, size restrictions, health restrictions, weight limitations, or any other special consideration or use restrictions required or recommended for the amusement ride by the manufacturer shall be prominently displayed at the patron entrance of each amusement ride.

(j) All amusement rides must comply with this section and the rules adopted hereunder.

(12) MAJOR MODIFICATION.—After an amusement ride has undergone a major modification, and prior to the time it is placed in operation, a professional engineer licensed by the state in which the certification is performed must certify that the amusement ride is in compliance with this section and all rules adopted pursuant thereto.

(13) ENTRY FOR INSPECTION OR INVESTIGATION.—Upon presentation of identification, an authorized employee of the department may enter unannounced and inspect amusement rides at any time and in a reasonable manner and has the right to question any owner or manager; to inspect, investigate, photograph, and sample all pertinent places, areas, and devices; and to conduct or have conducted all appropriate tests including nondestructive testing. The department may impose fees for unannounced inspections and recover the cost of tests authorized by this subsection.

(14) REPORTING AND INVESTIGATION OF ACCIDENTS AND DEFECTS; IMPOUNDMENTS.—

(a) Any accident of which the owner or manager has knowledge or, through the exercise of reasonable diligence should have knowledge, and for which a patron is transported to a hospital, as defined in chapter 395, must be reported by the owner or manager to the department by telephone within 4 hours after the occurrence of the accident and must be followed up by a written report to the department within 24 hours after the occurrence of the accident.

(b) Any mechanical, structural, or electrical defects affecting patron safety for which an amusement ride is closed to patron use for more than 4 hours must be reported by the owner or manager to the department by telephone or facsimile within 8 hours after the closing of the ride. A written report of the closing of the ride, on a form prescribed by rule of the department, must be filed by the owner or manager with the department within 24 hours after the closing of the amusement ride.

(c) The department may impound an amusement ride involved in an accident for which a patron is transported to a hospital as defined in chapter 395 or which has a mechanical, structural, or electrical defect affecting patron safety, and may impound any other amusement ride of a similar make and model, and may perform all necessary tests to determine the cause of the accident or the mechanical, structural, or electrical defect, or to determine the safety of the amusement ride and any other amusement ride of a similar make and model. The cost of impounding the amusement ride and performing the necessary tests must be borne by the owner of the amusement ride.

(15) INSPECTION BY OWNER OR MANAGER.—Before opening on each day of operation and before any inspection by the department, the owner or manager of an amusement ride must inspect and test the amusement ride to ensure compliance with all requirements of this section. Each inspection must be recorded on a form prescribed by rule of the department and signed by the person who conducted the inspection. In lieu of the form prescribed by rule of the department, the owner or manager may request approval of an alternative form if the alternative form includes, at a minimum, the information required on the form prescribed by rule of the department. Inspection records of the last 14 daily inspections must be kept on site by the owner or manager and made immediately available to the department upon request.

(16) TRAINING OF EMPLOYEES.—The owner or manager of an amusement ride shall maintain a record of employee training for each employee authorized to operate, assemble, disassemble, transport, or conduct maintenance on an amusement ride on a form prescribed by rule of the department. In lieu of the form prescribed by rule of the department, the owner or manager may request approval of an alternative form if the alternative form includes, at a minimum, the information required on the form prescribed by rule of the department. The training record must be kept on site by the owner or manager and made immediately available to the department upon request. Training may not be conducted when an amusement ride is open to the public unless the training is conducted under the supervision of an employee who is trained in the operation of that ride. The owner or manager shall certify that each employee is trained, as required by this section and any rules adopted thereunder, on the amusement ride for which the employee is responsible.

(a) A bungy operation conducted with balloons, blimps, helicopters, or other aircraft.

(b) Sand bagging, which is the practice of holding onto any object, including another person, while bungy jumping, for the purpose of exerting more force on the bungy cord to stretch it further, and then releasing the object during the jump causing the jumper to rebound with more force than could be created by the jumper’s weight alone.

(c) Tandem or multiple bungy jumping.

(d) Bungy jumping from any bridge, overpass, or any other structure not specifically designed as an amusement ride.

(e) The practice of bungy catapulting or reverse bungy jumping.

(18) IMMEDIATE FINAL ORDERS.—

(a) An amusement ride that fails to meet the requirements of this section or pass the inspections required by this section, or an amusement ride that is involved in an accident for which a patron is transported to a hospital as defined in chapter 395, or an amusement ride that has a mechanical, structural, or electrical defect that affects patron safety may be considered an immediate serious danger to public health, safety, and welfare and, upon issuance of an immediate final order prohibiting patron use of the ride, may not be operated for patron use until it has passed a subsequent inspection by or at the direction of the department.

(b) An amusement ride of a similar make and model to an amusement ride described in paragraph (a) may be considered an immediate serious danger to the public health, safety, and welfare and, upon issuance of an immediate final order prohibiting patron use of the ride, may not be operated for patron use until it has passed a subsequent inspection by or at the direction of the department.

(19) ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES.—

(a) The department may deny, suspend for a period not to exceed 1 year, or revoke any permit or inspection certificate. In addition to denial, suspension, or revocation, the department may impose an administrative fine in the Class II category pursuant to s. 570.971 not to exceed $2,500 for each violation, for each day the violation exists, against the owner of the amusement ride if it finds that:

1. An amusement ride has operated or is operating:

a. With a mechanical, structural, or electrical defect that affects patron safety, of which the owner or manager has knowledge, or, through the exercise of reasonable diligence, should have knowledge;

b. In a manner or circumstance that presents a risk of serious injury to patrons;

c. At a speed in excess of its maximum safe operating speed;

d. In violation of this section or any rule adopted under this section; or

e. In violation of an order of the department or order of any court; or

2. A manager in the course of his or her duties is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

(b) The department shall, in its order suspending a permit or inspection certificate, specify the period during which the suspension is effective; but such period may not exceed 1 year. The permit or inspection certificate shall remain suspended during the period so specified, subject, however, to any rescission or modification of the order by the department, or modification or reversal thereof by the court, prior to expiration of the suspension period.

(c) The owner of an amusement ride, if the permit or inspection certificate for the amusement ride has been revoked by the department, may not apply for another permit or inspection certificate for the amusement ride within 2 years after the date of such revocation. If judicial review is sought and a stay of the revocation is obtained, the owner may not apply for another permit or inspection certificate within 2 years after the final order of the court sustaining the revocation.

(d) During the period of suspension or revocation of a permit or inspection certificate, the owner may not engage in or attempt to engage in any operation of the amusement ride for which a permit or inspection certificate is required under this section.

(e) When a suspension period imposed by the department has expired, an owner whose annual permit or inspection certificate has expired may reapply for a new permit or inspection certificate by submitting a complete application to the department.

(f) In addition to the remedies provided in this section, and notwithstanding the existence of any adequate remedy at law, the department may bring an action to enjoin the violation of any provision of this section, or rules adopted under this section, in the circuit court of the county in which the violation occurs or is about to occur. Upon competent and substantial evidence presented by the department to the court of the violation or threatened violation, the court must immediately issue the temporary or permanent injunction sought by the department. The injunction must be issued without bond.

(g) In addition to the penalties authorized to be imposed for any violation of this section or any rule adopted under this section, the department may issue a letter of warning to the owner of the amusement ride specifying the violation and directing the owner to immediately correct the violation.

(h) Any person who knowingly violates any provision of this section commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(1) There is created and constituted the “Florida State Fair Authority,” a public body corporate and politic, for the purposes and with the powers set forth in this part. Such instrumentality, hereinafter referred to as “the authority,” shall have perpetual succession. For the purposes of implementing the intent of this part, the authority shall be considered an instrumentality of the state, subject to the jurisdiction of the state. Any conflict with respect to that jurisdiction will be resolved by the authority and respective state agencies.

(2) The authority shall operate under the supervision of the Commissioner of Agriculture, which supervision may include, but is not limited to, assisting, advising, and making recommendations regarding the financing and operation of the authority. In assisting and advising the authority, the Commissioner of Agriculture may make appropriate staff of the department available to the authority.

(3) The authority is charged with the responsibility of staging an annual fair to serve the entire state. Cash premiums or awards may be given to exhibitors.

(4) The principal offices of the authority shall be in such place or places in or near the City of Tampa as the authority may from time to time designate.

(1)(a) The authority shall be composed of 22 members. The Commissioner of Agriculture, or her or his designee, shall serve as a voting member. There shall also be a member who is the member of the Board of County Commissioners of Hillsborough County representing the county commission district in which the Florida State Fairgrounds is located, who shall serve as a voting member. There shall also be an appointed youth member who is an active member of the Florida Future Farmers of America or a 4-H Club, who shall serve as a nonvoting member. The Commissioner of Agriculture shall appoint each other member of the authority. Each member appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture shall serve at the pleasure of the Commissioner of Agriculture. The term of each member appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture shall be 4 years, but the term of the nonvoting youth member shall be for 1 year. Members may be appointed for more than one term. Any vacancy shall be filled for the remainder of the unexpired term pursuant to the method provided in this section for appointment. Six of the members may be from Hillsborough County. The Commissioner of Agriculture shall appoint and set the compensation of an executive director. The executive director shall serve at the pleasure of the Commissioner of Agriculture.

(b) Members of the authority may be persons who are or have been directors or officers of a fair association or who have otherwise actively participated in conducting a public fair, festival, show, exposition, or similar activity. Holding a commission as a member of another board or authority does not render a person ineligible to serve as a member of the fair authority so long as the common-law rule of incompatibility does not prohibit holding both commissions.

(2) The authority shall meet at the call of its chair, at the request of a majority of its membership, at the request of the Commissioner of Agriculture, or at such times as may be prescribed by its rules.

(3) Members of the authority are not entitled to compensation for their services as members but shall be reimbursed by the authority for per diem and travel expenses as provided in s. 112.061. Except for the nonvoting youth member, each member may be compensated for any special or full-time service performed in the authority’s behalf as officers or agents of the authority.

616.253 Florida State Fair Authority; officers; quorum.—The authority shall elect from among its members an executive committee to consist of a chair, who shall preside, a vice chair, a secretary, a treasurer, and such other officers as the authority may deem necessary or expedient in the performance of its functions. The same person may serve both as secretary and treasurer, if thus designated. The authority may delegate to any of its members, officers, agents, or employees any of its powers or duties, which delegation it deems necessary to fulfill its responsibilities, and shall establish bylaws and such rules of conduct and procedure as it may deem necessary to govern its own functioning. A majority of the members of the authority shall constitute a quorum. No vacancy in the membership shall impair the right of a quorum to exercise all of the powers, functions, and duties of the authority.

616.254 Authority of Florida State Fair Authority to sue and be a party to suits.—The authority may sue and be sued, plead and be impleaded, and complain and defend in all courts of law and equity with respect to its contractual rights and obligations and its responsibility to carry out its proper purposes and functions.

(1) Designate a suitable location in Hillsborough County as the Florida State Fairgrounds.

(2) Throughout each year, promote the progress of the state and stimulate public interest in the advantages and development of the state by providing facilities for agricultural and industrial exhibitions, public gatherings, cultural activities, and other functions intended to advance the educational, physical, economic, and cultural interests of the public. It is the intent of the Legislature that the authority, when contracting for concessions at functions held pursuant to this subsection, give consideration to increasing the number of concessionaires that are minority businesses.

(3) Hold an annual fair on the Florida State Fairgrounds for the exhibition of agricultural, industrial, mechanical, horticultural, dairy, forestry, poultry, livestock, mineral, cultural, and all other interests of the state, and establish rules of exhibition and operation for the fair. The fair shall be subject to the requirements of ss. 616.15 and 616.17.

(4) Erect and repair buildings on the Florida State Fairgrounds, make any and all necessary or proper improvements, and generally carry on a program of development and extension of facilities designed to accomplish the objectives set forth in this section.

(5) Develop and implement a master plan to remedy the infrastructure deficiencies on and surrounding the fairgrounds. The deficiencies shall include, but are not limited to, stormwater and drainage, internal and external traffic including parking and construction. The development of the plan shall include input from Hillsborough County.

(d) Acquire in its own name by purchase, grant, gift, or lease, on such terms and conditions and in such manner as it may deem proper, real and personal property, and acquire, construct, reconstruct, improve, alter, repair, maintain, operate, sell, convey, lease, and dispose of any building, structure, or facility.

(e) Employ the executive director appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture at the compensation set by the commissioner. Employ other managers, consulting engineers, architects, accountants, inspectors, attorneys, and such other employees as may be deemed necessary and prescribe their powers and duties and fix their compensation.

(f) Accept loans or grants of money, property, or personal services from any agency, corporation, or person.

(g) Make and enter into all contracts or agreements, as the authority may determine, which are necessary or incidental to the performance of its duties or the execution of its powers under this part.

(h) Borrow money for any of its authorized purposes and for expenses incidental thereto, including expenses incurred during the period of organization and construction prior to the operation of the Florida State Fair, and incur obligations with respect to such borrowings, including notes, secured or unsecured, and negotiable revenue bonds, as hereinafter provided, payable solely from revenues accruing from the operation of the Florida State Fair or any part or parts thereof and from authorized activities incidental thereto; pay interest with respect to such borrowings not exceeding the maximum allowable by law; provide for the payment of such borrowings and interest as hereinafter provided; fix rates and make collections for the use of the facilities and services of the authority; and execute mortgages, trust indentures, or other instruments, as may be required for the financing of the authorized activities of the authority.

(i) Engage in any lawful business or activity deemed by it to be necessary, convenient, appropriate, or useful in the full exercise of its powers to establish, finance, and operate the Florida State Fair under the provisions of this part, including the leasing for revenue of any land, improved real estate, or personal property directly related to, or appropriate in connection with, the financing or conduct of the Florida State Fair or reserved for its future use or expansion. Within the meaning of this part, any use of the property of the authority, real or personal, shall be deemed necessary, convenient, appropriate, or useful which stimulates, assists, fosters, and promotes all phases of the economy of the state, including agricultural, industrial, commercial, cultural, and recreational pursuits, or which provides revenue to the authority from the property, pending its future use for any of the purposes of the state fair.

(j) Adopt rules pursuant to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to implement provisions of law conferring duties upon it.

(2) It is the intent of the Legislature that the authority, when contracting for the acquisition of personal property or services pursuant to this section, give consideration to increasing the number of contractors that are minority businesses.

(1) Revenue bonds may be issued on behalf of and at the request of the authority, as provided in the State Bond Act. The proceeds of each issue of bonds shall be used solely for the payment of the cost of the state fair project or projects for which the bonds were issued, as provided in the proceedings authorizing the issuance of the bonds.

(2) No revenue bonds shall be issued under the provisions of this part unless the authority shall have found and determined:

(a) The estimated cost of the project for which the bonds are proposed to be issued.

(b) The estimated annual revenues of the project, and of any other special funds provided for in this part, which may be pledged as security for the bonds.

(c) The estimated annual cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating the project.

(3) Revenue bonds issued under the provisions of this part shall not be deemed to be a debt of the state or to pledge the faith and credit or taxing power of the state, but such bonds shall be payable exclusively from the funds pledged for their payment as authorized in this part.

(4) All projects of the authority shall be deemed to be state fixed capital projects within the meaning of s. 11, Art. VII of the State Constitution.

(1) The authority shall fix and revise from time to time rates, fees, rentals, tolls, or other charges for the use of each project or for the services and facilities furnished thereby and charge and collect the same. Such rates, fees, rentals, tolls, or other charges shall be so fixed and adjusted, in respect of the aggregate of rates, fees, rentals, tolls, or other charges from the project or projects for which bonds are issued, as to provide a fund sufficient, together with any other special funds pledged therefor as provided in this part, to pay the cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating such project or projects and the principal of, and interest on, the revenue bonds as the same shall become due and to provide reserves for such purposes, and to make all such other payments required by the proceedings authorizing the issuance of such revenue bonds. The rates, fees, rentals, tolls, and other charges shall not be subject to supervision or regulations by any state commission, board, bureau, or agency other than the authority.

(2) All, or a sufficient amount of, the revenues derived from a project or projects for which revenue bonds have been issued shall be set aside, at such regular intervals as may be provided in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the bonds, or in the trust agreement securing them, in a sinking fund for the payment of the principal and interest on the bonds as they become due and any premium upon bonds retired by call or purchase as therein provided, and for reserves therefor, and to pay the cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating the project or projects and of providing reserves therefor, all in the order of priority and manner as shall be provided in the resolution or trust agreement. The use and disposition of the sinking fund shall be subject to such regulations as may be provided in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the bonds or in the trust agreement.

616.259 Revenues of authority; trust funds.—All moneys received pursuant to the authority of this part, whether as proceeds from the sale of revenue bonds or as revenues, shall be deemed to be trust funds. Proceeds from the sale of revenue bonds shall be held and applied as provided by law. Revenues of the authority shall be held and applied, consistent with law, as provided by resolutions of the authority.

616.260 Tax exemption of authority.—It is hereby found and determined that all of the projects authorized by this part constitute essential governmental purposes, and all of the properties, revenues, moneys, and other assets owned and used in the operation of those projects shall be exempt from all taxation, including special assessments, by the state or by any county, municipality, political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality thereof. However, nothing in this section shall grant any person other than the authority an exemption from the tax imposed in chapter 220, and if property of the authority is leased, the property shall be exempt from ad valorem taxation only if the use by the lessee qualifies the property for exemption under s. 196.199. The exemption granted by this section shall not be applicable to any tax imposed by chapter 220 on interest, income, or profits on debt obligations owned by corporations. The property of the authority shall be subject to the provisions of s. 196.199.

616.261 Finances of Florida State Fair.—Operation of the Florida State Fair, and custody and maintenance of the buildings and grounds, shall be financed from the revenues derived from the state fair and other exhibits or events; revenue bonds; lease, rental, or other charges for the use of the buildings or grounds; and donations and other available sources of funds or revenues.

616.262 Conveyance by the authority; option to acquire by Board of Trustees of Internal Improvement Trust Fund.—Any provision of this part to the contrary notwithstanding, no transfer, lease, conveyance, or encumbrance of any land or interest therein inconsistent with the development of a state fair as provided in this part shall be made without prior approval from the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund or its successors. Prior to any lawful transfer of title to all or any part of the property owned by the authority by any public entity to any private person, individual, group, partnership, association, corporation, organization, or other private entity or entities, the board of trustees or its successors shall have an option to acquire the subject property without payment of consideration.

(1) The authority shall submit each year, at least 60 days prior to the convening of the Legislature in regular session, a comprehensive report to the Commissioner of Agriculture outlining the progress and the activities of the authority, including all land bought, leased, acquired, sold, mortgaged, or conveyed, and all buildings and improvements erected, in the preceding 12 months and, as ascertainable, purchases, leases, acquisitions, sales, mortgages, and conveyances of land, and buildings and improvements, proposed for the subsequent 12 months in the year preceding that session. The Commissioner of Agriculture shall transmit the report to the Legislature, together with a plan for oversight of the authority, including, but not limited to, program review, goal setting, objectives to be achieved, strategies, and any recommendations for legislation.

(2) The authority shall at all times maintain proper accounting systems and procedures and shall be subject to audit by the Auditor General.

(1) The Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation is authorized, upon application, to issue a beverage license, as contemplated in ss. 561.17 and 565.02, to the Florida State Fair Authority for use by the authority or by a concessionaire under contract with the authority within the Florida State Fairgrounds in Hillsborough County; however, the license issued pursuant to this section shall not permit the licensee or its transferee assigns to sell alcoholic beverages in sealed containers for consumption off the Florida State Fairgrounds.

(2) The application for the license authorized in this section shall be made in the name of the Florida State Fair Authority, and the applicant shall comply with all applicable provisions of chapter 561 prior to the issuance of the license in the name of the Florida State Fair Authority.

(3) The Florida State Fair Authority may transfer the beverage license authorized in this section to a concessionaire under contract with the Florida State Fair Authority to furnish alcoholic beverages within the Florida State Fairgrounds. The contract with the concessionaire must contain a provision that the concessionaire agrees not to discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, or religion. The Florida State Fair Authority shall make application for the transfer of the license to the concessionaire, and the application shall be approved by the Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco in compliance with the applicable provisions of chapter 561. However, any transfer of the beverage license authorized in this section to a concessionaire operating under contract with the Florida State Fair Authority shall be on the condition that, if the concession contract is terminated at any time and for any cause, the concessionaire shall immediately retransfer the beverage license to the Florida State Fair Authority. In the event of the failure or refusal of the concessionaire so to retransfer the beverage license, it shall be retransferred to the Florida State Fair Authority upon proper request made in writing to the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Thereafter, the beverage license may again be transferred upon the same terms and conditions to any new concessionaire under contract with the Florida State Fair Authority. It is the intent and purpose of this section that the beverage license be at all times the property of the Florida State Fair Authority, subject to its transfer, from time to time, to enable the concessionaire under contract with the Florida State Fair Authority to furnish alcoholic beverages within the Florida State Fairgrounds while operating under the beverage license authorized by this section.